| Height | 6-9 inches [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | up to 14 pounds [1] |
| Life expectancy | 12–14+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Loyal / Affectionate / Regal In Manner [1] |
| AKC group | Toy Group [1] |
| Origin | China [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 90 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
Pekingese are charming, confident companions who develop a close bond with their people. Their whole purpose in life is to amuse and comfort. Although they are fairly sedate most of the time and have only modest exercise requirements, they do enjoy participating in canine sports at their own pace. [1]
Grooming
The thick double coat of the Pekingese requires a good bit of maintenance. Pekingese shed seasonally. Brushing him at least one hour per week will help to remove loose hairs and prevent matting, and an occasional bath will help to keep him looking his best. [1]
Health issues to budget for
As with all short-faced breeds, it is important to choose a Pekingese with wide-open nostrils on a moderate-sized nose. Because Pekingese don't have a long muzzle to act as a natural barrier of protection for the eyes, it is important to ensure that your environment is safe for your Peke and that nothing can jab or irritate his eyes. Pekingese appreciate cold temperatures, and therefore some owners travel with their Pekes on frozen ice packs, or an ice pillow, even for rides in the car, which provides a level of comfort that Pekingese thoroughly enjoy. Working with a responsible breeder, those wishing to own a Peke can gain the education they need to know about specific health concerns within the breed. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: No recommended health tests. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a small dog (median $508) | $273 – $1,110 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, small dog | $352 – $1,258 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, small dog | $435 – $1,484 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Pekingese in 1906. [1]
- It ranked No. 90 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 80 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Peke.” [1]
- The AKC lists China as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 1 recommended health screening for breeding dogs, such as No recommended health tests. [1]
Good fit for
Common questions
How long do Pekingeses live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 12-14 years.
How big does a Pekingese get?
AKC breed information lists height 6-9 inches and weight up to 14 pounds.
How much are vet bills for a Pekingese?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For small dogs like the Pekingese, a typical vet bill runs $273 – $1,110 (median $508). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.